Welcome to Science class!

Please email or call me if you have any questions or concerns:

Ms. Erin Fitzgerald

efitzgerald@shgschool.org

410 833 0857 ext. 215

Below you will find my class expectations and the student safety contract:
 

7^th and 8^th Grade Science Expectations 2008-2009

   Room 215

PURPOSE:  To help students become more scientifically literate with a mind that is open to the unfathomable possibilities of the future.  I define science as “Man’s interpretation of God’s unfolding creation”, and encourage students to form their own personal definitions in which they recognize not only God as the ever present Creator of All, but also develop their talents so they can address the concerns and needs of the world in which they live.

GENERAL WORK:  All students will be exposed to “The Living Reality of Science”, including: safety practices, equipment and its proper use, the importance of accuracy in recording data, health/development, current events/human responses, constructions/efficiency testing and calculations, technology, dissection techniques and ecology. 

HOMEWORK:  Assignments will be written on the board and should be copied into students’ assignment pads.  Assignments and unfinished class work are to be completed at home.  Legible writing and correct spelling are expected, especially if words are provided in text or word bank. 

GRADING:

TESTS            Announced test dates should be recorded in assignment book.  Tests may include, but are not limited to: traditional tests, open-book tests, and original class presentations.

   QUIZZES           Quizzes will be more frequent, based on computer work or class work.  They may include, but are not limited to: individual quizzes, cooperative group quizzes, open notebook quizzes, and quizzes on class presentations.

LABS/PROJECTS          Time is given to review expectations.  Labs/projects may include, but are not limited to: class demonstrations, performance of lab tasks, individual typed/written lab reports including additional research, science fair written reports, and science fair display boards (in January).      

Parental/Guardian support and encouragement are key to your child’s success; however, students must take on personal responsibility for their academic growth. Since work completed in class provides for more authentic assessment, every opportunity will be provided for each child to meet with success.  Absentees must make up any missed work in a timely manner.  Please be aware that three missed homework assignments will result in a detention.  If labs are missed, an alternative assignment may be given.  Please be aware of this when planning 8^th grade shadow days. Thank you, and I am looking forward to a fun and productive school year!

Student Safety Contract – Science Lab   2008-2009

  Room 215

PURPOSE

Science involves a series of inquiry activities and requires a great deal of cooperation and respect by students, teachers, and parents.  To assure safety and a positive learning process, students are required to adhere to the following guidelines.  Parent and student signatures are also required before students may participate in any activity.  The Safety Contract should be reviewed regularly and must remain in the student’s notebook all year.

 GUIDELINES

1. Enter the room appropriately.  Go to assigned station and take out materials needed:
   1. Textbook
   2. Notebook
   3. Pen or pencil
   4. Assignment book should be handy
2. Date and name on paper.  Answer warm-up questions on chalkboard.
3. Prepare for lab work by reading/discussing material a day in advance.
4. Ask questions during instruction time or as needs arise. 
5. Follow directions carefully.  (NO UNAUTHORIZED EXPERIMENTS!)
6. Keep workstation neat and free of unnecessary materials.
7. Use equipment properly (set-up and clean-up). 
8. Work in a cooperative fashion, contributing positively as much as you can.
9. Remain with your group – no wandering!
10. Stop activity and give attention to teacher when called or at bell.
11. Eating, drinking, and chewing gum are prohibited in the lab.
12. Dress appropriately:
    1. Secure loose hair.
    2. Use apron/lab coat/goggles/gloves.
    3. No bracelets, rings or dangling jewelry.
    4. Roll up sleeves.  Tuck in ties.
    5. No open toed shoes.
13. Keep hands away from face during activities, especially mouth, nose, eyes, ears, and hair.
14. Know where safety equipment is and how to use it:
    1. Eyewash station
    2. Chemical splash shower
    3. Fire/First Aid blanket
    4. First aid kit
15. If a fire drill occurs:
    1. Close/cover all containers.
    2. Turn off all valves.
    3. Turn off and close fume hood.
    4. Turn off/unplug all electrical equipment.
    5. Exit room quickly and silently.

BE RESPONSIBLE AT ALL TIMES